Skin Cancer

Taking The Fear Out Of This Treatable Skin Disease

We all know how enjoyable being out in the warm sunshine can be. But, while sunlight is necessary to survive, too much of it can cause significant damage to the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. And as scary as the words “skin cancer” might be, this is actually one of the most common problems treated by dermatologists.

Skin cancer can be cured before it becomes a serious threat if detection and early diagnosis is made properly and the cancer can be treated in its early stages.

Know What To Look For

The three most frequently occurring forms of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinoma may appear as open sores that either refuse to heal or heal temporarily, only to recur later in the same spot. They can be reddish patches, pink growths, smooth, shiny or rough crusty bumps, scar-like areas, raised growths and moles.

You can also look for the features below that may suggest a brown spot or mole may be a melanoma. Known as the ABCDs of Melanoma Detection, they include:

• Asymmetry: one half unlike the other
• Border: irregular, scalloped or poorly circumscribed
• Color: varied from one area to another; shades of tan & brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue
• Diameter: larger than 6mm as a rule (diameter of a pencil eraser)

Know If You Are At Greater Risk

Patients with fair skin and light eyes are more likely to develop skin cancer, however, It is important to remember than anyone spending time unprotected in the sun is susceptible. Those with medical conditions that cause an increased sun-sensitivity and older adults 40-50 also have a greater risk of acquiring an Actinic Keratosis.

Although most skin cancer manifests itself later in life, an increasing number of cases have been reported among individuals in their 20’s and 30’s, so you are never too young for a skin examination.

Hope And A Solution

The great news is that West Dermatology offers several methods to successfully treat skin cancer. If you feel you are at risk for skin cancer, please consult your dermatologist as soon as possible. West Dermatology’s certified doctors have the knowledge and years of experience to successfully remove tumors, especially if they are diagnosed in the early stages of development. We offer the following procedures on an outpatient basis:

• Liquid nitrogen
• Excision
• Laser Surgery
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery - a technique used to rid the body of a tumor without destroying any more healthy surrounding tissue than necessary. Our trained dermatologists use a microscope to get to the root of the cancer to ensure precise removal and lessen the chance of regrowth. The cure rate is estimated at 99 percent. To learn about Mohs Micrographic Surgery, please visit www.mohscollege.org.

Of course the best way to avoid getting skin cancer in the first place is through preventative measures. Here are some basic helpful safety tips to keep in mind:

• Wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher on exposed areas of the body daily (winter months included)
• Limit sun exposure during the hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wear protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses and tight-weave clothing when in the sun
• Refrain from sunbathing or using tanning devices
• Examine all areas of your skin at least four times a year

Committed To Ensuring Your Skin’s Health

West Dermatology is dedicated to working with you to combat this serious disease. Contact our offices to discuss how we can assist you in promoting good health and maintain your youthful complexion.

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